Little, a 6-foot-8 former fourth-round pick, debuted in 2023 and appeared for the Cubs in 2024, flashing a high-velocity fastball (up to 100 mph) and swing-and-miss upside. His current Iowa numbers show a 4.70 ERA and 1.96 WHIP across 7.2 innings, with 10 walks, suggesting the initial role could be limited to mop-up work or short stints.
Rolison, a former first-round pick (22nd overall in 2018) out of Ole Miss, has endured a career hampered by injuries and control issues. After a 2025 MLB debut with the Rockies and a later stop with the White Sox, he was claimed by the Cubs in January. At Iowa this season, Rolison owns a 3.68 ERA in limited innings, though six walks in seven frames indicate ongoing control concerns.
The Cubs’ slow start — 7-9 after the blowout loss — has heightened the urgency for bullpen depth and rotation support. Cade Horton’s season-ending elbow injury and Justin Steele’s ongoing rehab from elbow surgery further deplete the staff, leaving managers and front office to evaluate how Little and Rolison can contribute beyond mop-up duty.
As Chicago moves to solidify its pitching staff, a corresponding roster move is expected (potentially designating Charlie Barnes for assignment) though no official announcement had been made by Tuesday afternoon. The club will continue to monitor health and performance as they balance immediate relief with long-term development.
